The Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3) has partnered with SM Supermalls to establish MSME Calamity Recovery Care Centers (DTI-SM MSME Care Centers) aimed at supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) affected by recent calamities. The partnership highlights the ongoing commitment to empower and assist local businesses in overcoming challenges and recover in the wake of Typhoon Carina.
The DTI-SM MSME Care Centers are strategically located in several SM Supermalls across Central Luzon, including SM City Pampanga, SM City Olongapo, SM City Tarlac, SM City Balanga, and SM City Baliwag. These booths are manned by dedicated Negosyo Center Business Counselors and DTI-3 Associates, providing crucial advisory services and support to MSMEs in need.
The centers offer services designed to help businesses continue and recover. Eligible MSMEs may avail of DTI recovery assistance programs such as the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) and business loan programs from the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) which are vital for keeping their businesses afloat.
DTI-3 OIC Regional Director Edna D. Dizon emphasized the importance of this initiative. “This partnership with SM Supermalls is part of our collective efforts in fostering an environment where MSMEs can thrive despite the challenges brought about by natural calamities. Our goal is to provide support to ensure that our local entrepreneurs can continue their operations and contribute to the region’s economic recovery.”
The launch of the DTI-SM MSME Care Centers is part of a broader effort to offer uninterrupted support to MSMEs, serving as an alternative to the advisory and counseling services provided by DTI Negosyo Service Centers. This initiative is a direct result of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual and SM, formalizing the commitment to support MSMEs during times of crisis.
